1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 253 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Impala |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 293 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2807 mm |
